Trump’s Peace Proposal and Its Impact on Israeli Politics
This week, Trump shared a 20-point peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, which has persisted for almost two years. This development might allow for the return of 46 hostages held by Hamas. However, it could also spell trouble for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s position in the Israeli government.
Key to this plan is Hamas agreeing to halt Israeli military actions, disarmament, and facilitating the Gaza Strip’s reconstruction under Palestinian governance, with international oversight led by Trump. Ultimately, this proposal could alter the course of Netanyahu’s administration.
Trump believes this could be a major accomplishment for Netanyahu, yet acceptance of the plan may decide whether Netanyahu’s government gains renewed support or faces collapse.
Plan Details and Political Implications
Netanyahu’s coalition narrowly avoided early elections earlier this year, with elections set for October 2026. However, by July, his government lost its majority in parliament after two parties exited the coalition, leaving them with only 50 of the 120 seats.
Within his party, tensions are escalating, with members increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction regarding any concessions in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Some anticipated a “complete victory” on the battlefield, envisioning a full military occupation and the massive relocation of Palestinians.
Yet, this new Trump proposal seems to counter those aspirations, even as it addresses some core objectives—like returning hostages and disarming Hamas.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who resigned earlier this year over the ceasefire agreement, has expressed a desire to exclude both Israeli settlements and Hamas from Gaza altogether.
While Trump’s plan does not pave the way explicitly for a Palestinian state, it also appears to block Israel’s annexation ambitions, allowing Hamas members a potential “pardon” and disarmament.
Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has criticized the proposal as a “diplomatic failure,” arguing that it disregards lessons learned from past conflicts.
Netanyahu’s Leadership Under Scrutiny
Netanyahu faces a great deal of pressure, both from his own party and the wider public. His struggles to negotiate a successful hostage trade have raised eyebrows, with many questioning whether he is prioritizing military strategies over the fate of the hostages who have been detained for over two years.
Some commentators stress that not only is Israel facing increasing global isolation, but Netanyahu’s acceptance of Trump’s plan may lead to disastrous consequences for his political career.
Polling data suggests that he might struggle to win reelection if immediate elections were held.
Richard Goldberg, an advisor to the Democracy Foundation, remarked on the unpredictability of Israeli elections, particularly given its multi-party system. He noted that both leaders appear to be focusing on substantive issues rather than mere political maneuvering, aiming to ensure the long-term security of Israel.
It’s yet uncertain how accepting Trump’s proposals will sway public opinion, especially if Hamas agrees to return hostages within 72 hours.
Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid conveyed that the biggest challenge facing the plan lies in securing agreement across the political spectrum.
Some opposition leaders, such as Benny Gantz from the Blue and White Party, have shown support for Netanyahu’s agreement with the plan.
Goldberg stated that while the specifics remain ambiguous, achieving the deal could still be framed as a victory for Israel, especially with normalization efforts toward Saudi Arabia and addressing key security interests.
